PLANS for a new farming attraction at Murton could get the go-ahead this week despite protests from locals.

Planning officers at City of York Council have advised councillors to approve the transformation of Beetle Farm, on the eastern fringes of York, into a tourist attraction as well as a working farm.

If approved on Thursday, the plan would see the creation of an animal barn, separate building with various facilities, car park, two wildlife ponds and new field access.

Concerns have been raised by members of Murton Parish Council, over the lack of public transport and who said large vehicles would damage the roads and erode the verges.

The council also questioned the impact on the nearby Yorkshire Museum of Farming. Council officers, however, have supported the scheme.

In a report, they said: “The harm caused to the green belt would not be significant and that very special circumstances exist to outweigh this harm.”

The report added: “The proposal is expected to employ approximately five full time staff and four to six part time staff.

“The proposal is also likely to have knock-on benefits for other local businesses, eg in the supply and tourism sectors.”

The officers felt the proposal would “directly support the local economy” as well as provide an additional leisure attraction for the people of York.

The planning committee will meet at 4.30pm in the Snow Room, West Offices, on Thursday.